Suspect sought in dog shootings

LA CIENEGA, N.M. (KRQE) – Deputies are investigating the recent shootings near La Cienega of three dogs, two of which died. Investigators said they don’t know if the two cases are connected, but said that it is troubling.

Animal Protection of New Mexico is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information that leads to the arrest and prosecution of whoever is responsible for these cases.

One dog, a young female, is recovering at the Santa Fe Animal Shelter from at least two gunshot wounds. Officials there told KRQE News 13 she has undergone two surgeries since she was found Jan. 22.

“We have not identified the owner of that dog or the circumstances surrounding how that dog was injured,” said Capt. Adan Mendoza with the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff’s officials said the dog appeared to have been shot with a small caliber weapon.

On Jan. 28, two dead dogs, both with long golden fur, were found just a few miles away along a road. Investigators said both had suffered apparent gunshot wounds, likely from a small caliber weapon. One of the two dogs was wearing a collar.